Starbenders’ spellbinding single ‘Bitches Be Witches’ is a “celebration of the dark and different”. Accompanied by a gothic video, the hypnotic number is part of their Love Potions album and will leave you pleading to join their coven.
Atlanta’s glam punk rock stars Starbenders have entranced listeners this year with a slew of songs from their critically-acclaimed album Love Potions – and this single is no exception. ‘Bitches Be Witches’ is a captivating track containing seductive lyrics, a punchy drum solo and a hypnotically cyclical chorus. Slow drones of electric guitar form a gothic soundscape, with a glorious vocal performance from Kimi Shelter, guaranteed to entice rock and roll listeners across generations.
In an adventurous and experimental release, the quartet have rebranded themselves as magical beings, sporting fishnet tights and long curly locks. Producing a passionate potion of ‘70s glitter and ‘80s glam, the band have been contemporary rock and roll trailblazers since forming in 2014.
Frontwoman and spiritualistic songwriter Kimi Shelter spoke about the tantalising track and the motivations behind their magical transformation: “Those accused of witchcraft were once burned at the stake. Maybe they were a little different, more in tune than those around them, a touch more luminous. Although fire is no longer utilized, the flames of fear and hate still burn bright. This song is a celebration of the dark and different.”
She also reminds us to ignore corruptive energies, stating that the song is “a reminder to anyone who’s listening that we can reject the black magic of words and actions meant to harm us. When we do, it’s returned to them. Bitches be Witches.”
The accompanying video features a nun, corrupted by a few Starbenders vinyls and four vampiric band members, emblazoned with red eye shadow. A stupefying guitar solo is the soundtrack to the nun’s exorcism, concluding the video with a shot of the limited edition transparent purple vinyl of Love Potions.
‘Bitches Be Witches’ follows the astronomical sounds of ‘One Of Us’, ‘Push’, ‘Cover Me’ and ‘Can’t Cheat Time’.
Words by Harriet Fisk
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